He said that Pakistan was strategically located at the cross-roads of
important regions of South Asia, Central Asia and West Asia, which wanted friendship and cooperation with the international community.

Highlighting the challenges confronted by Pakistan, Sartaj Aziz said
Pakistan – a strong and vibrant nation of around 200 million people and endowed with human and natural resources, was facing terrorism and militancy.

He said the government had initiated a series of measures to eliminate
the twin menace through National Action Plan and operation Zarb-e-Azb in which it had achieved remarkable successes.

The adviser also highlighted the role of Foreign Service Academy
(FSA) in producing professionals. Major responsibility of a diplomat and
the diplomatic service is a calling that commanded deep commitment,
unflinching loyalty and an earnest pursuit of excellence.

“Twenty-first century diplomacy necessitated creativity, connectivity
and communication. The diplomats of both the courses are expected to
uphold the legacy and deliver results,” he maintained.

Congratulating the passing out officers, Sartaj Aziz said end of an
journey was always beginning of the other. “Merit and hardwork is always acknowledged and appreciated.”

He said that 10 probationary officers of the Foreign Service would proceed to Netherlands for a six-week training programme, which is aimed at their skill development.

FSA, the adviser said, had so far imparted training to around 1,200
foreign diplomats who were also considered ambassadors of Pakistan in
different countries across the globe.

In his welcome address, FSA Director General Iftekhar Aziz spoke
about the training philosophy, methodology and innovations employed by the academy.

He highlighted the activities taken place during the two courses and
appreciated the zeal and interest of the participants.

He said FSA was the only civil institution that imparted training to
around 1,250 diplomats so far and developed their professional skills on local, regional and international issues.

Later, Adviser on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz distributed certificates
among the participants of the nine-month 36th Specialized Diplomatic
Course, in which 22 foreign service probationary officers graduated, and a group of 37 diplomats from 35 friendly countries, who completed their six- week long Junior Diplomatic Course that started on November 21, 2016.

He also awarded gold, silver and bronze medals to top three position
holders of the 35th Specialized Diplomatic Course- Amna Chaudhry, Zulfiqar Ali Malik and Syeda Fatimee respectively.